Case Study: Red Collar Pet Foods
Our vision: create a world class private lavel and co-manufacturing dry pet food and treats business.
Arbor acquired Eclusive Brands in a complex carveout from Mars Inc. in late 2018. At the time, it was the 8th largest pet food manufacturer in North America with best-in-class facilities - yet lacked focus and identity.
Keys to Success
Rebrand
Created a new corporate identity and brand that conveyed a love for pets and deep commitment to manufacturing high quality pet food. Red Collar was born.
New Customers
Significantly expanded customer base with leading branded and blue-chip retail players.
Talent
Upgraded the leadership team to accelerate business.
Expanded Capabilities
Executed synergistic acquisition to expand company’s product offerings and capabilities.
The Result
Utilizing the full Arbor toolbox, Red Collar Pet Foods became one of the fastest growing and largest independent pet food producers in North America. The value created proves the advantage of the Arbor approach.
In September 2022, Colgate-Palmolive Company bought Red Collar’s dry kibble manufacturing business for $700 million. In early 2023, Nestle S.A. bought Red Collar’s primary treat facility. In October 2023, Red Collar sold its remaining treats manufacturing facility to Sunshine Mills.
In November 2023, the sale of Red Collar Pet Foods assets won M&A Deal of the Year (between $500 million – s1 billion) and Consumer Staples Deal or the Year at the 22nd Annual M&A Advisor Awards in New York.
